Bahri launches ‘data innovation’ platform for shipping sector

Wednesday, 28 September 2016 05:17

Bahri General Cargo US Country manager Steven Blowers with Bahri team at Breakbulk Americas 2016. (Image source: Bahri)National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia (Bahri) has introduced a ‘data innovation’ platform to enhance productivity, unlock opportunities for growth and transform the shipping industry

Claimed to the maritime industry’s first data-innovation platform, Bahri’s innovative model ‘BahriData’ is intended to improve the company’s operating performance and drive data innovation within the global shipping industry.

The company said that its cross-functional team of maritime industry professionals and technology specialists is currently working on developing several Big Data models that will help streamline and enhance all aspects of the company’s operations.

The models cover a number of key business areas including chartering, voyage management, fleet operations, connected ship, maintenance, customer control tower and customer service. The competitive advantage expected from a steadfast focus on data innovation is expected to help the company to diversify its reach across all lines of business including general cargo.

The announcement was made during the company’s participation in Breakbulk Americas, an annual gathering of project and breakbulk cargo owners, and specialised transport and logistics providers.

At the event, Bahri also announced plans to open its second North American office in Houston. Operating from its Baltimore office since 1992, Bahri General Cargo operates six new state-of-the-art multipurpose vessels all uniquely designed to carry Project, Ro-Ro, Break Bulk and Container Cargo in a single voyage. Of these four vessels connect the USA to Saudi Arabia and major ports in the Gulf, Indian sub-continent and Mediterranean.

Bahri General Cargo country manager Steven Blowers USA said, “Bahri General Cargo has a novel approach to its focus on optimal cargo mix and is the leading direct RoCon liner service provider from the US to the Middle East and Indian subcontinent making this corridor one of the most profitable routes for Bahri. Through our innovative data innovation model - BahriData – we are gearing up to make more informed decisions, and be fully prepared to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.”